Low-Grade Fever

What is low-grade fever?

A fever is an increase in the body temperature above normal. A low-grade
fever is a mild elevation of the temperature above normal. Your
temperature measurements fluctuate through the day and vary depending
upon the site of measurement. Generally, a child is considered to have a
fever if the temperature is at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
rectally, 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit orally, or 99 degrees Fahrenheit in
the armpit. In an adult, a fever is generally defined as 100 degrees
Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) or greater

Low-Grade Fever Spotlight

Fevers often accompany infections and are part of your body’s natural defense against them. Body temperature can also be elevated by physical activity and environmental factors, such as wearing heavy clothing or a high ambient temperature. A low-grade fever may also occur following immunizations, during teething, or as a symptom of cancer or inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It can also occur as a side effect of some medications.

Low-grade fevers may not require treatment if other symptoms are absent. Self-care measures, such as rest and drinking fluids, may be enough. Medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and aspirin, can all lower a fever, although aspirin should not be used for children, and ibuprofen is not recommended for infants under six months of age.

Persistent fevers or high fevers may require medical intervention, as may those accompanied by such symptoms as sore throat, earache, cough, or burning with urination. Fevers can be serious in people who have weakened immune systems or who have chronic medical problems.

Infection symptoms that may occur along with low-grade fever

What causes low-grade fever?

Fevers often accompany infections. Body temperature can be elevated by physical activity and environmental factors, such as wearing heavy clothing or a high ambient temperature. A low-grade fever may also occur following immunizations, during teething, or as a symptom of cancer or inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It can also occur as side effect of some medications.